An Analysis of Strategies for Strengthening the Influenza Vaccine Supply Chain.
- GOOD HEALTH AND
WELL-BEING
Issue
Japan faces a severe shortage in vaccine supply capacity.
According to simulations conducted by the U.S. Department of Defense, the essential measures to address H5N1 influenza include: (1) “delaying the infection peak” through appropriate countermeasures, (2) developing, manufacturing, and administering vaccines to the entire population within 4–6 months, and (3) “minimizing the damage.”
On the other hand, if a novel influenza outbreak (H5N1) were to occur in Japan, it would be necessary to prepare vaccines for the entire population within six months. However, our calculations indicate that it would take Japan approximately 5 years and 2 months to achieve this. Additionally, 13 issues were identified, including structural challenges in the industry, such as the lack of new entrants into the low-profit vaccine business, and insufficient manufacturing speed.
Approach
Independently formulating hypotheses on the challenges of Japan's vaccine supply system and presenting proposals to the government.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, e-Solutions compiled nine measures to address the challenges and submitted proposals to the government. These measures included the formulation of a vaccine strategy, ensuring transparency in the government’s decision-making processes, supporting the establishment of profitability in the vaccine business, and developing a compensation system for vaccine-related side effects.